Ukraine’s Defence Minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, has praised SpaceX founder Elon Musk for effectively preventing Russia from using Starlink satellites to control drones in the ongoing conflict. Fedorov described Musk as “a true champion of freedom and a friend of the Ukrainian people,” noting the rapid response when informed about Russian drones using Starlink connectivity.
The drones, linked to several deadly Russian attacks — including one on a moving passenger train that killed six people — have been difficult for Ukrainian forces to intercept due to their low-altitude flight and real-time remote control.
Musk confirmed on X that measures to stop unauthorized Starlink usage by Russia appear to be working, adding, “Let us know if more needs to be done.” Starlink has provided high-speed internet in Ukraine since the early days of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
Reports suggest SpaceX introduced a speed limit of 75 km/h for Starlink terminals moving over Ukraine, making it harder for Russian operators to control drones that travel faster. The Ukrainian government is also preparing a whitelist of approved Starlink terminals; any unregistered devices will be disconnected.
While Musk initially enabled Starlink access across Ukraine in February 2022 after a request from Fedorov, tensions later arose when SpaceX restricted its use in Crimea, citing concerns about complicity in military attacks. Musk has also publicly criticized Western funding and weapons support for Ukraine, though he insists Starlink will remain operational for Ukrainian forces.
Despite earlier disputes, Fedorov reiterated last week that Musk’s decisions were critical for Ukraine’s defense, with Starlink serving as the backbone of the army’s communications. Fedorov, now the country’s Minister of Defence, emphasizes advanced cyber-warfare and data-driven strategies, and plans to collaborate closely with Silicon Valley companies to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
